Thailand sees largest pro-democracy rally in years

An anti-government protest in Thailand's capital Bangkok drew at least 10,000 people on Sunday, police said, making it the largest political demonstration the kingdom has seen in years.

The student-led protests began nearly a month ago and have been held on an almost daily basis ever since.

Demonstrators are demanding a revised constitution, an end to the harassment of government critics and reforms to the monarchy.

The last demand is particularly sensitive in Thailand — anyone criticizing the monarchy faces between 1.5 to 15 years in jail.

They also want Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who took power in a 2014 military coup, to resign.

Read more: Thai protesters call for end of monarchy on king's birthday

'Down with the dictatorship'

Crowds of demonstrators shouting "down with the dictatorship" gathered around the capital's symbolic Democracy Monument. Others held dove-shaped cutouts representing peace.

Student activist Parit Chiwarak made an appearance at the rally, despite being granted bail on Saturday after being arrested for his pro-democracy work.

Flanked by supporters, he held a sign that read: "10-point Monarchy Reform" – referring to a list of demands setting out changes that student protesters want to see implemented.

Police were also present, as well as a much smaller group of royalists who support the monarchy.

Read more: Life after the tourist trade for Thailand's elephants

Waves of protests

Thailand has experienced multiple coups ever since the army toppled the absolute monarchy in 1932, replacing it with a constitutional monarchy.

The government held elections last year but these were seen as rigged, sparking public anger.

The latest wave of protests began in February this year after a court ordered the pro-democracy Future Forward Party to disband. The onset of the coronavirus pandemic, however, put a pause on these protests until recently.

kmm/mm (AP, AFP, dpa)